Cowboys VP Stephen Jones reflects on last offseason's Amari Cooper trade

"I think Gallup, we probably should've been a little more conservative," Jones said, per ESPN's Todd Archer. "You know, most guys come off an ACL, especially skill guys, maybe takes a little time. "

"I think Gallup's going to be back [in form in 2023]," Jones continued. "But getting a little confidence in our drafting, thinking Tolbert could step right in and do some things. I think it just sometimes takes a little longer with the receivers." 

The day after agreeing to trade Cooper, the Cowboys signed Gallup, who tore his ACL in Week 17 of the 2021 season, to a five-year extension worth $62.5 million. In 14 games this past season, he recorded 424 yards and four touchdowns. 

A third-round pick from South Alabama in 2022, Tolbert only had three targets during his rookie season, catching two passes for 12 yards and failing to score. 

On the other hand, Cooper had 1,160 receiving yards and a career-high nine touchdowns with Cleveland despite starting QB Deshaun Watson missing 11 games due to his suspension. 

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said earlier this month that he also felt Dallas relied too heavily on Tolbert to make an immediate impact and Gallup to produce. However, Jones insisted the Cooper deal was necessary because the team needed to shed his $20 million annual salary. 

Even if Gallup returns to total health and Tolbert progresses, Dallas still lacks a legitimate second option to complement WR CeeDee Lamb. The former Oklahoma Sooner emerged as the focal point of Dallas' passing attack this past season, recording 107 receptions for 1,359 receiving yards and nine touchdowns.

TE Dalton Schultz, an impending free agent, who may not return, was second on the team in receptions (57) and receiving yards (577).

Since vice president Jones acknowledges that Gallup and Tolbert performed below the Cowboys' unrealistic expectations, perhaps they'll target a receiver in the first round of April's draft. Although considering its window for contention with its current group may be closing, it might be wiser for Dallas to gauge the trade market.